West J Nurs Res. 2010 Oct;32(6):794-813. doi: 10.1177/0193945910361469. Epub 2010 Aug 09.

The experience of stress for open heart surgery patients and their caregivers.

Western journal of nursing research

Lois Robley, Nancy Ballard, Debbie Holtzman, William Cooper

PMID: 20696847 DOI: 10.1177/0193945910361469

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to understand the modern experience of stress among adult coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients who are hospitalized less than 10 days and among their significant caregivers. The naming of stressors and the nature and triggers for the stress response that either contributed to or ameliorated stress were examined. A qualitative research method using hermeneutic phenomenology was used to interpret and understand the experience of stress. The stressors identified by both patient and family participants in this study were shock and disbelief leading to a feeling of being overwhelmed. Among patients, mortality was foremost. Among family caregivers, anger was expressed. The importance of providing information, honesty, and trust were pivotal to alleviating stress. A more thorough knowledge of history and complementary therapies are needed to reduce stress.

MeSH terms

• Adaptation, Psychological
• Caregivers / psychology
• Coronary Artery Bypass / psychology
• Humans

Publication Types

• Journal Article
• Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't